Many deaths that are investigated by the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner remain Unidentified Persons. During these investigations, we attempt to obtain positive identification so the next-of-kin can be notified. Positive identification can be made by visual identification in person or in comparison to a photograph. Unique tattoos or features on the deceased’s body can also assist in positive identification. We collect medical, dental and fingerprint data for comparison to records taken prior to an individual’s death. DNA may be submitted for comparison within a national database.

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has created a database called NamUs (National Missing and Unidentified Persons System - http://www.namus.gov/ ). The Oklahoma Medical Examiner’s Office is in the process of entering information for each unidentified person in Oklahoma into the NamUs system. This information can be viewed by the public and direct contacts are included. The DNA in the database is continually compared across the NamUs Unidentified and Missing Persons sites.

The Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, along with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and Oklahoma Department of Corrections, are combining their efforts with local law enforcement agencies across Oklahoma to assist in collecting DNA from families of Missing Persons.

If you have information regarding an Unidentified or Missing Person, please contact us by phone or email and we will be happy to assist you.